pioneer
     n 1: someone who helps to open up a new line of research or
          technology or art [syn: {innovator}, {trailblazer}, {groundbreaker}]
     2: one the first colonists or settler in a new territory; "they
        went west as pioneers with only the possessions they could
        carry with them"
     v 1: open up an area or prepare a way; "She pioneered a graduate
          program for women students" [syn: {open up}]
     2: take the lead or initiative in; participate in the
        development of; "This South African surgeon pioneered
        heart transplants" [syn: {initiate}]
     3: open up and explore a new area; "pioneer space"
Source: WordNet® 2.0